National MPs go on 'listening' tour

Mon 28 Jun 2010, 11:35 AM AEST

National MPs are teaming up for a "listening" tour of the state's west.

The Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, and NSW Member for Barwon Kevin Humphries, are visiting residents in Wanaaring, Bourke, Brewarrina and Walgett to get their feedback on what issues need to be addressed.

Mr Coulton says the trip will allow him to meet more people in his electorate, which is expanding to take in more of the state.

He says every community is unique.

"A lot of the problems that people have with education and health and a whole range of other things are just magnified when you get into a more remote area," he said.

"I would imagine that that's what would be on the agenda.

"Also I would think drought funding, resource management and whatever else they want to bring up.

"Quite often when you go to these meetings you're not quite sure what [is] going to be at the forefront, that's one of the reasons why you go out there."

He says it is a great opportunity to find out what is important to residents.

"Depending on what the request is you can make representation to the Government," he said.

"You can use it to fine tune your own policy, make contact with people elsewhere that may be able to help that situation.

"You know you'll use whatever tools you've got to deal with the situation."